Everton vs Liverpool: Preview, Predictions, and Lineups

Final Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park Set for Historic Showdown

A historic night awaits as Everton and Liverpool face off for the last-ever Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park on Wednesday evening. The 119th league meeting between these fierce rivals at Everton’s famous home is perfectly balanced—both teams have won 41 games each at this venue.

While Everton aims to celebrate this occasion with a memorable victory, Liverpool is laser-focused on their Premier League title charge. The Reds, currently leading the table, can take a massive step toward winning the league with three points in this crucial fixture.

Match Details

• 📍 Location: Goodison Park, Liverpool, England
• 🏟 Stadium: Goodison Park
• 📆 Date: Wednesday, 12 February 2025
• ⏰ Kick-off Time: 19:30 GMT / 14:30 ET / 11:30 PT
• 📋 Referee: Michael Oliver
• 🎥 VAR: Chris Kavanagh

Head-to-Head Record (Last Five Meetings)

• Liverpool has dominated recent Merseyside derbies but Everton’s win last season at Goodison Park ended their title hopes—a result they’ll want to avoid this time.

Current Form (All Competitions)

• Liverpool has won four of their last five league matches and is in strong form despite their FA Cup setback.
• Everton’s form under David Moyes has been solid with three wins in four league games since his return.

Everton Team News & Predicted Lineup

🔹 Injury Updates:

• ❓ Vitalii Mykolenko – Could return from a calf injury.
• ❌ Dwight McNeil (knee), Nathan Patterson (ankle), Seamus Coleman (knee), Dominic Calvert-Lewin (hamstring), Armando Broja (muscle injury), Youssef Chermiti (knee) – All ruled out.

📝 Predicted Lineup (4-4-1-1):

• ⚠ Key Player: James Tarkowski – Will be crucial in keeping Liverpool’s attack at bay.

Liverpool Team News & Predicted Lineup

🔹 Injury Updates:

• ❌ Joe Gomez (muscle injury), Stefan Bajcetic (ankle), Joel Matip (ACL), Thiago Alcantara (hip) – Ruled out.
• ✅ Trent Alexander-Arnold – Back in contention after a minor knock.
• ⚠ Darwin Nunez expected to start after strong performances in recent weeks.

📝 Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):

• ⚠ Key Player: Mohamed Salah – Liverpool’s top scorer will be the main attacking threat.

Tactical Analysis & Key Battles

1️⃣ Everton’s Defensive Setup vs. Liverpool’s High Press

• Everton will sit deep and look to frustrate Liverpool.
• Liverpool will press high and try to force errors from Everton’s defense.

2️⃣ Liverpool’s Attack vs. Pickford’s Shot-Stopping

• Jordan Pickford will need to be at his best to keep Liverpool out.
• Salah, Gakpo, and Nunez will look to exploit Everton’s defensive gaps.

3️⃣ Midfield Battle: Gueye & Garner vs. Mac Allister & Szoboszlai

• Everton will need energy in midfield to stop Liverpool’s quick transitions.
• Mac Allister’s passing range and Szoboszlai’s creativity will be key for Liverpool.

Match Prediction: Everton 1-2 Liverpool

• ⚽ Salah (Liverpool) – 22’
• ⚽ Nunez (Liverpool) – 56’
• ⚽ Doucoure (Everton) – 78’

🔹 Final Thoughts:

• Liverpool’s quality should see them edge this contest.
• Everton will make it difficult, but the league leaders have been too strong this season.
• Liverpool’s title push remains on track with a crucial three points at Goodison Park.

What’s Next?

• 🗓 Everton: Face Brentford away on 17 February.
• 🗓 Liverpool: Travel to face PSV in the Champions League on 20 February.

Who do you think will win the last-ever Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park? 🤔⚽